Wierzbicki, who lives in Union, will represent New Jersey at the Great American Seafood Cook-Off this August in New Orleans.

Eight chefs from across the state competed for the spot, each preparing a signature dish within one hour for a panel of eight judges to sample.

The judges questioned the chefs on sources of their seafood and produce, which ideally showcased the state’s industries.

Judge Christopher Albrecht, who is the executive chef at Eno Terra in Kingston and won the Jersey Seafood Challenge last year, called this year’s winning dish “awe-inspiring.”

“When you talk about recognizable dishes and memories, the BLT has a special place,” said Albrecht, adding that Wierzbicki used pure ingredients and showed passion for the Jersey diner story.

James Costello, 48, took second place with his dish — a smoked monkfish over Jersey corn grits with butter poached asparagus, lavender blossoms, saffron oil and a raspberry wine reduction. Costello owns The Ohana Grill in Lavallette.

“Supporting the local economy and the local fisherman is the way to go,” Costello said.

Finishing third was Christopher Sanchez, 39, the owner and chef at Black Eyed Susans in Harvey Cedars.